Houston Airports implemented a new Active Loading policy at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) on May 23, ahead of the record-setting 2024 Memorial Day holiday weekend. The strict policy aims to improve traffic flow and expedite the arrival and departure process for all airport guests.

"We are continually striving to enhance the passenger experience at Bush Airport, even as we build a new international terminal and transform our existing Terminal B," said Bobby Miller, Senior Division Manager, Airport Operations for Houston Airports. "With record passenger volumes at all five terminals at Bush Airport this summer, we implemented the Active Loading policy to streamline curbside operations and reduce congestion."

Active Loading is managed through the Landside Operations Division of Houston Airports. It ensures that vehicles picking up arriving passengers or dropping off departing passengers are occupied and ready to go when they pull up to the curb. This is achieved through clear signage and courtesy reminders from Houston Airports staff.

ARRIVALS CURBS

• Passenger(s) must be standing on the curb with luggage in order for a vehicle to stop and load.
• If the passenger is not outside or they don’t have all their bags, Houston Airports will not allow a vehicle to stop. Drivers are not allowed to pop vehicle trunks and wait. 

DEPARTURES CURBS

• All passengers must be actively unloading – grabbing luggage or wrapping up a short farewell.
• If passengers stop to have conversations with the driver, Houston Airports will politely ask the party to move off the curb. Ensure that all conversations are had before stopping at the curb. 

TEMPORARY LANE CLOSURES AT THE CURB

Some lanes at Bush Airport will be coned off during periods of low vehicle volume. This allows Houston Airports employees to take necessary breaks from the summer heat while allowing traffic to freely flow through open lanes along the Arrivals and Departures curbs. Outer lanes will be blocked during off-peak hours; lanes closest to airport entrance doors will stay open.

During the initial rollout over the Memorial Day weekend, the Active Loading policy received positive feedback from passengers and drivers. Passengers appreciated the more efficient curbside operations, while drivers experienced reduced wait times.

"We're encouraged by the positive response to the Active Loading program," said Miller. "We will continue to monitor the program's effectiveness and adjust as needed. Our ultimate goal is to create a smooth and stress-free experience for everyone traveling through Houston Airports."

William P. Hobby Airport initiated an Active Loading policy years ago. Bush Airport was one of the few major airports that did not impose strict and swift pickups and drop-offs. The airport is now working to proactively change passenger habits during the busiest summer on record for Houston Airports. An additional 40 Landside Agents will help. By the end of July, Bush Airport is set to increase curb staffing by nearly 50%. 

“We have greatly improved traffic backups during off-peak hours,” said Miller. “This policy shift allows us to deliver a world-class experience by prohibiting traffic from building up simply because vehicles are parked and waiting for passengers along the curb. While the policy may seem rigid, the policy’s efficiency and consideration for other passengers allows us to deliver ‘Houston Friendly’ hospitality, but quickly moving vehicles along so others may pull up to the curb.”